Study Overview
In a recently published article in Behavioral Medicine, led by colleagues from the UTS Health Faculty and supported by international experts in health promotion, Professor Nico Schulenkorf explored men's preferences regarding the language and communication strategies used in mental health promotion. The study aimed to understand how language can be tailored to engage men in mental health initiatives effectively. It provides insights into men's communication needs by examining how certain words, metaphors, and action-oriented messaging can help reduce stigma and align with masculine identities. The findings are intended to guide the development of mental health programs that resonate with men, promote emotional literacy, and increase their engagement in mental wellness activities.
Key lessons learnt
The key takeaways from the article are:
- Coded Language for Mental Health Engagement: Men prefer indirect or coded language when discussing mental health. They find it more comfortable to use colloquial or non-clinical terms to convey emotional struggles, as clinical language may carry stigmas associated with weakness or vulnerability. Terms that resonate with everyday experiences can make mental health discussions feel safer and more relevant.
- Use of Metaphors and Masculine Associations: Associating mental health with metaphors related to physical health, sports, or machinery (e.g., “recharge your battery” or “checking under the hood”) allows men to engage with mental wellness in familiar, relatable terms. These metaphors help to reframe mental health as an aspect of strength and self-care, rather than a sign of illness or deficiency, aligning with culturally accepted masculine norms.
- Dynamic, Action-Oriented Language: Men respond positively to language that emphasizes action, growth, and self-improvement over passive or problem-focused discussions. Phrasing mental health promotion as a journey of personal development, skill-building, or “mental fitness” aligns with men’s preference for proactive and strength-based approaches, which can motivate them to engage in mental health initiatives without feeling stigmatized.
Overall, the study’s insights underscore the importance of tailoring mental health promotion strategies to resonate with men’s identities and values, ultimately fostering better engagement in mental health practices. Read the full journal article in Behavioral Medicine.
You can read the full article in Behavioral Medicine: Men’s Preferences for Language and Communication in Mental Health Promotion: A Qualitative Study
Do you want to study Sports Management at UTS? Find out more at Why Sports Management.